Reporting on sickness of Barrow's brother
Author
Recipient
Date Written
Feb. 15, 1819
Joseph Palmer Fessenden was 26 years old when this was written.
The recipient, John Stuart Barrows, was 27 when it was received.
Joseph Palmer Fessenden died 41 years, 11 months, 29 days after writing this.
It was written 204 years, 7 months, 20 days ago.
It was a Monday.
North Yartmouth
Feb. 15, 1819
Dear John,
Your brother is very sick again with a fever, was attacked Friday night much after the manner he was before. The Doctors are pursuing stimulating plan with him. I have sent for Doc. Little this morning. What will be the event of this however is only known to Him who knows all things. I think the prospect of his recovery is less favorable than his former sickness. There is not such a prostration of strength as there was in the same time last fall. It is impossible almost to keep sustenance down him; his distress is in his stomach and bowels. There seems to be an obstruction that defies all attempts to [?] it. If it be possible, it is his wish and also that of his wife that Doc. Griswald should come and see him. You will mention this to the doctor. I hope he will come. I think your brother may get well and do not myself despair but he remains discouraged. God is able to restore him and my prayer is that he will.
The rest of the family is in good health. I came here Saturday night and am doing all in my power for him. Miss N. Ruby came from Portland to this town this morning. Mr. B. has sent your papers to Oxford Court. Yours in great haste.
Jos P. Fessenden
My Love to P----
Scans of Letter
